Enjoy an afternoon at Dyer Observatory and become inspired by activities focused on science, technology, engineering, math and astronomy.

Scheduled during the Summer Solstice on Friday, June 21, from noon to 4 p.m., the day will feature special events, fun activities and snacks and beverages for both adults and children, including:

Special Events

1 p.m. – Owl Encounter

2 p.m. – Liquid nitrogen ice cream

3 p.m. – Ask the Astronomer

Activities

Observatory tour

Star Chamber tour

Solar telescope

Star wheels

UFO bounce house

Astronaut selfie station

Physics experiments

“Dyer Observatory is a truly unique resource for learning and science outreach located atop one of Nashville’s tallest peaks in a beautiful natural setting,” said Nathan Green, vice chancellor for government and community relations. The observatory, an office of the Division of Government and Community Relations, is surrounded by scenic Radnor Lake State Park and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Dyer Observatory has four telescope installations, three of which are mounted in domes on top of the observatory and are still actively used for observation. Observe the sun through solar glasses as well as the hydrogen-alpha solar telescope, through which the solar chromosphere, sunspots, prominences and filaments can be viewed. In addition, visit the observatory’s land sculpture, “The Star Chamber,” a walk-in camera obscura (pinhole camera).

Vanderbilt University has a long and respected tradition in astronomy. Vanderbilt’s first chancellor, Landon Garland, was a professor of physics and astronomy, and many of the university’s original 1875 astronomical instruments and artifacts are housed at the current-day Dyer Observatory.

Employees are encouraged to speak with their managers or use PTO time to attend the event. The Day at Dyer is free to all university employees and their families.